A rich and aromatic Indian spiced tea blended with warm milk, sweetener, and a medley of traditional spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. This cozy chai latte is comforting, deeply flavorful, and perfect for slow mornings or chilly evenings. It offers the warmth of home and the elegance of a café-style beverage, all made from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This masala chai latte offers the perfect balance of bold black tea, warming spices, and creamy milk. It’s deeply satisfying and far more flavorful than store-bought blends. Whether you’re winding down in the evening or starting your day with mindfulness, this traditional Indian beverage brings both comfort and energy. Plus, it’s easy to adapt to your taste and dietary needs.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups water
2 black tea bags (or 2 tsp loose black tea)
1 cinnamon stick
3 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
2 whole cloves
1 star anise (plus more for garnish)
1/2 tsp ground ginger or 1 slice fresh ginger
1/4 tsp black peppercorns
1 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk)
1–2 tsp maple syrup or sweetener of choice

directions

1. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, star anise, ginger, and black peppercorns. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the water.
3. Add the black tea and continue simmering for 2–3 minutes.
4. Stir in milk and your preferred sweetener. Let the mixture heat until just before boiling.
5. Strain the chai into mugs using a fine mesh strainer, discarding the solids.
6. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a whole star anise if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves 2
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: approximately 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegan version: Use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free latte.
• Extra spicy: Add more ginger or a pinch of ground cloves for a bolder flavor.
• Vanilla twist: Add a splash of vanilla extract with the milk for a smoother finish.
• Iced chai latte: Chill the strained tea, then serve over ice with cold milk.
• Creamier texture: Use a frother to whip the milk before adding for a café-style presentation.

storage/reheating

Masala chai is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the strained tea (without milk) in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat:

• Add the tea to a saucepan with milk and gently warm over medium heat.
• Do not boil once the milk is added, as it can affect the flavor and texture.

Avoid microwaving for best taste and consistency.

FAQs

Can I use ground spices instead of whole?

Yes, but whole spices offer a cleaner flavor. If using ground spices, use sparingly and strain carefully to avoid grit.

What kind of tea is best for masala chai?

A strong black tea like Assam or Darjeeling is traditional, but any robust black tea will work.

Can I make a large batch?

Absolutely. Scale the ingredients proportionally and store the spiced tea concentrate in the refrigerator.

Is masala chai the same as a chai latte?

Masala chai is the traditional Indian preparation. A chai latte is a Western adaptation, often sweeter and milkier.

How sweet should I make it?

Sweetness is to taste. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust based on your preference.

Can I skip the sweetener?

Yes, the spices and tea are flavorful enough to enjoy unsweetened if preferred.

What milk alternative tastes best in chai?

Oat milk offers a creamy texture, while almond milk provides a lighter flavor. Coconut milk adds a rich, tropical note.

Can I froth the milk for a café-style look?

Yes, frothing the milk adds visual appeal and enhances the texture. Froth before mixing it into the tea.

Is it okay to reuse the spices?

It’s best to use fresh spices for optimal flavor, but you may reuse them once for a milder second brew.

How can I make it decaffeinated?

Use decaffeinated black tea or a caffeine-free herbal base like rooibos for a caffeine-free version.

Conclusion

Homemade Masala Chai Latte is more than a beverage—it’s a ritual of warmth, tradition, and flavor. With its robust spices, silky milk, and customizable sweetness, it’s a comforting drink perfect for any time of day. Skip the coffee shop and enjoy this authentic, aromatic brew from the comfort of your kitchen.

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